Travelodge launches returner programme

The Travelodge hotel chain is launching a new recruitment programme targeting parents looking to get back into work by offering jobs with hours that fit around the school run, a work buddy and access to management training.

The returner programme is part of Travelodge’s plans to open 100 hotels over the next five years, creating up to 3,000 new jobs.

The company says jobs will be available across the company’s hotels and head office – including roles in reception, restaurants, housekeeping as well as flexible hours in head office roles.

For the launch, Traveloddge commissioned a YouGov survey which shows 86% of unemployed parents would like to return to work with 59% saying that the scarcity of jobs with flexibility around the school run was the biggest challenge to finding work.

Six out of ten (61%) of unemployed parents reported that they have lost their confidence whilst staying at home to raise a family and are apprehensive of returning to work.

Further findings revealed that 41% of parents are eager to work in order to regain their personal identity and not be labelled just a parent. In addition 31% of unemployed parents reported that they are bored at home and want to work in order to exercise their mind and learn new skills.

More than a quarter (26%) of adults reported that they want to work because they miss adult conversation. In addition, nearly seven out of 10 (67%) of unemployed parents said they would appreciate the opportunity to climb the career ladder whilst raising their family.

Hospitality is facing a significant skills challenge, with Brexit likely to have a major impact since many in the industry are from EU countries.

Travelodge will be offering roles across its 558 current UK hotels, in its forthcoming new hotel openings and at its head office. Positions include: Hotel Manager, Assistant Hotel Manager, Receptionist, Bar Café Team Member, Housekeeper, and Housekeeping Team Member, as well as support roles.

In addition to flexible working, it is providing careers advice on its website to help mums and dads return to work, a full range of company benefits including discounted hotel stays, comprehensive training and a work buddy to help get returners up to speed and an opportunity to join the Travelodge Aspire management programme.